PROJECT REVEAL | Slate

Location Providence, RI

Scope interior design, purchasing, project management

Client Steer Media

Originally a simple paint color consultation, Slate quickly grew into a full-scale design, build-out, and furnishings project. Our client had been planning to build an extension of his existing media company, but this time around he envisioned a place that he could share; a place where new stories could grow.

Specializing in messaging development, film & television production, as well as interactive exhibitions, Steer Media has established a happy home in a large repurposed mill building on the West End of Providence. As the company continues to expand, so does the need for space. With this growth in mind, Steer acquired the suite adjacent to their existing office, doubling their footprint in the building. The goal was to create a refreshing, metropolitan space that would surprise locals and inspire human connection, a space that felt elevated yet inviting - and that’s where we came in.

The original Steer suite was to remain home base, our job was to help Slate become the fancy little sister next door. The two spaces, while different, remained connected by a decorative “secret door” composed of metal and glass. When closed, the door stands tall as a design feature, providing privacy as required. When open, guests and colleagues can easily flow through each space.

While mapping out the overall design, it was imperative to not only fulfill our client’s needs, but to also anticipate their client’s needs. The addition serves as working space for Steer as well as a unique rentable multi-purpose venue for events or filming needs.

We were inspired by the name “Slate” as both a tool used in film production and a natural material. This quickly became our guiding concept and was crucial in making decisions on palette, texture, shapes, materials, and fixtures.

The overall scope includes a large airy co-working and meeting space, a sound proof film studio supported with wardrobe, makeup, and dressing areas, and an intimate dining area with a prep kitchen. An endlessly functional space, various vignettes were created throughout to serve as an alluring backdrop for filming, collaborating, podcasting, and hosting.

Considering Steer’s vision for Slate’s function and aesthetic, we solved unique problems with smart solutions to utilize every inch of space. A forgotten supply closet became the dressing room, an awkward space under stairs became a cozy nap nook, and a once obstructive column became a perfect home for the hair and makeup area. Knowing all necessary tools are within arms reach, clients can comfortably spend hours, days or weeks in this studio.

To give the space a timeless feel, the overall palette of contrasting dark grays and whites is bold while remaining classic. Rich sienna velvet on custom banquettes and grasscloth wallcoverings brings balance, warmth and texture while further elevating the overall design. The smaller and somewhat hidden rooms provided an opportunity for a fun and surprising rich pop of color. We chose deep, earthy tones, in these spaces creating comfortable and inviting spaces for staff & guests alike to discover and enjoy.

A nod to our concept, we chose a deep charcoal color as a dramatic feature color throughout Slate. Arched openings, tambour walls, banquette bases and more feature this beautiful moody shade. When used on the ceilings, the color creates visual interest and a linear effect drawing newcomers through the space. The texture and richness of the contrasting white lime-wash walls balance out the charcoal color, adding an overall earthy and outdoors comfortability. The perfect bridge between the subtle limewash and the striking charcoal, a black and ivory grasscloth wallcovering brings rich texture to the entry and conference areas.

With an abundance of natural light, floating shelves of lush greenery brings this industrial space to life with fresh color and texture. Custom floor-to-ceiling drapery panels combined with rolling solar shades provides a stunning solution not only for privacy, but controlling the level of light when filming. Cork-backed flooring also merges functionality and design, making sure the adjacent film studio can be used in tandem with the conference room. These acoustic properties allow the conference room to remain sophisticated, inviting and intentional.

Throughout the design process, storytelling was the thread consistently weaving through each space, pulling the vision for Slate together. Our client believes in gathering places and embraces any opportunity for communication. Banquettes with overstuffed, velvet cushions line the conference room creating a comfortable space for work or leisure. The seating and round, marble tables offer a bistro-like feel, welcoming natural conversation and ideas. A few minutes of conversation in this sunlit room will have you questioning whether you’re in a Providence film studio, or a metropolitan escape.